You can put several things on apple slices to keep them from turning brown, which happens due to oxidation when the flesh is exposed to air. Effective options include:

• Lemon juice or other citrus juices (lime, orange, pineapple): These contain citric acid, a natural antioxidant that slows browning. Soak apple slices in a mixture of about 1 tablespoon lemon juice per 1 cup water for 3 to 5 minutes, then drain. This keeps apples fresh and adds a slightly tart flavor

• Salt water: Soaking apple slices in a salt water solution (about 1 teaspoon salt per cup of water) for 10 minutes effectively prevents browning. After soaking, rinse the slices to remove excess salt and maintain a fresh taste

• Honey water: A mixture of 1 tablespoon honey per cup of water can also preserve apple slices, keeping them from browning for several hours with a mild sweet flavor

• Carbonated drinks: Lemon-lime soda, ginger ale, or seltzer water contain citric acid and can slow browning when apple slices are soaked in them for a few minutes

• Physical barriers: Wrapping apple slices tightly in plastic wrap or reassembling slices and securing them with a rubber band limits air exposure and slows browning

In summary, soaking apple slices in lemon juice water or salt water are among the most popular and effective home methods to keep apples from browning for several hours, with honey water and citrus sodas as alternatives. Wrapping slices to limit air contact also helps preserve their color